Alder Creek (FR 25N34) in CA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in California
Alder Creek (FR 25N34) in CA
A 9.8-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Tehama County, CA. The road serves Elk Lake Trailhead.
Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days.
All 9.9 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (9.9 miles). Climbs 3,300 ft over 9.9 miles -- sustained grades near 22%, with pitches to 51%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~160 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 10 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. A water crossing 4 miles in.
Twin Peaks stands 2,985 ft above the site, 2.6 miles northeast. Private here -- the nearest through road is 1.4 miles off. Alder Creek runs 0.6 mi off. The nearest town, Covelo, is 23 mi off.
September normals 50–80°F, 0.2″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov